Today we celebrate International Chess Day — one of the most accessible, inclusive games in the world, open to anyone willing to play, whether over the board or online.

Chess is one of the oldest games in the world. It started in India over 1,500 years ago, made its way along the Silk Road to Persia, and eventually spread across Europe. Estimates show that over 600 million adults play chess regularly worldwide, with total numbers reaching upwards of 1 billion when including anyone who casually knows the rules. Across more than 178 countries, in dozens of languages, at every level imaginable.

July 20 marks the day FIDE, the International Chess Federation, was founded in Paris in 1924. Their motto has always been Gens Una Sumus, meaning “We are one family”. Chess players have celebrated the date since 1966, and in 2019 the United Nations formally recognised it as World Chess Day.

That motto still feels right.

From elite players fighting for championships to casual players enjoying a game with friends. From fans who watch every move and support their favourite players to everyone who simply enjoys the game. It doesn’t matter where you’re starting from or how well you play. Chess is open to anyone willing to play, whether that’s sitting down at a board or playing online.

Today is for all of us.

Happy International Chess Day from everyone at Norway Chess.